A fresh, authentic Vietnamese dining experience arrived in July, in Aberdeen’s city centre, with the opening of Mai’s Vietnamese Kitchen at 12B Back Wynd.
Founded on a passion for family traditions and home cooking, the restaurant debuted last month (July 2025), marking a bold expansion from Mai’s previous takeaway venture. The space is styled to evoke a warm, unpretentious vibe—“traditional Hanoi feel” in décor, providing a comfortable backdrop for a cuisine rich in heritage.
Menu Highlights that Bring Vietnam to Aberdeen
- Gỏi Cuốn Tôm – fresh spring rolls with shrimp, avocado and crunchy salad, served with a deeply nutty peanut dipping sauce
- Nem Cua Bể – golden, crunchy crab spring rolls with a delightful seafood punch
- Chạo Tôm Bọc Mía – grilled shrimp threaded on sugarcane, paired with vermicelli, salad, soft rice paper and dipping sauces—letting diners build their own bite
- A standout finish: homemade passionfruit Vietnamese cheesecake—rich, tropical and addictive
These handcrafted dishes showcase Mai’s creative menu and dedication to freshness, flavour, and presentation—a reflection of the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a personal touch.
A Growing Chapter in Aberdeen’s Culinary Story
After months of planning and renovations, Mai and her husband Dave welcomed guests with enthusiastic hospitality, even amidst the business of their opening week in July . The founders have crafted not just a restaurant, but a community space where genuine Vietnamese flavours meet local dining culture.
As Mai herself reflected online: “It’s exciting to see a second Vietnamese spot open in the heart of the city. A bold sign of Aberdeen’s quietly growing culinary diversity and a welcome space for authenticity and community.”
Legacy and authenticity, combined with bold menu creativity, make Mai’s Vietnamese Kitchen a compelling new chapter in Aberdeen’s evolving food landscape. The restaurant has quickly gained popularity, and diners are advised to book ahead rather than chance a walk-in.
